The Philadelphia Phillies are entering Spring Training with renewed optimism after a productive offseason aimed at reinforcing their core. Key player Alec Bohm, who had a standout 2024 season, is under scrutiny following a significant drop in performance during the latter half. His .280 batting average and 97 RBI for the year were impressive, but a fall to .251 and 27 RBI after the All-Star break raised concerns. This volatility has led to speculation about possible trades, particularly involving Nolan Arenado of the St. Louis Cardinals. While a trade hasn’t occurred, the Phillies must weigh Bohm's future based on his performance, especially as they look to improve their lineup alongside established hitters Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber.

The Texas Rangers are working diligently to prevent a flu outbreak in their clubhouse, already impacted by infections among players. Joc Pederson and Chris Martin have both been sidelined due to the virus, prompting manager Bruce Bochy to prioritize player health, especially after his own bout with the illness earlier this year. Bochy emphasized the importance of vigilance in the face of the flu, citing widespread closures in his Nashville community.

When Pederson returns, he will primarily serve as a designated hitter but will also focus on playing first base, filling a gap in the lineup. Despite limited experience at first base since his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Pederson's versatility should help solidify the Rangers' depth as they prepare for the season.

Lance McCullers Jr. is actively progressing towards a return to the Houston Astros after two years away from the mound. Currently throwing in bullpen sessions, he aims to partake in Grapefruit League games by spring training's end. With a history of injuries, including flexor tendon surgery last June, McCullers has only made 11 starts since signing a lucrative contract in 2022. Despite speculation about a potential bullpen role, he asserts his intention to build up as a starter. The Astros, meanwhile, are cautiously optimistic about his 2025 contributions to the team.

In fantasy baseball leagues that include holds as a scoring category, making informed decisions during draft day becomes crucial. Identifying pitchers who can consistently contribute holds involves targeting teams poised for victory and having a defined closing option. Notably, holds can be secured by multiple players, as long as the entering pitcher maintains the team's lead without being the final pitcher in the game.

As the 2025 season approaches, several pitchers stand out as potential leaders in holds. Bryan Abreu of the Houston Astros, who led the league with 38 holds last season, is projected to continue his dominance. Yennier Cano from the Baltimore Orioles and Griffin Jax of the Minnesota Twins also showcase strong potential for accumulating holds this season.

The St. Louis Cardinals face a tight timeline regarding potential trades for Nolan Arenado, particularly after Alex Bregman's recent signing with the Boston Red Sox. With Bregman off the table, Arenado is now the centerpiece of the third base market, yet interest from the New York Yankees appears lukewarm despite earlier rumors suggesting otherwise. Reports indicate that the Yankees haven't engaged in serious discussions with the Cardinals, causing St. Louis to reconsider its options as spring training looms.

Arenado was previously seen as a prime candidate for a trade to the Red Sox, but that door has now closed with Bregman's acquisition. Additionally, with Gleyber Torres leaving for the Detroit Tigers, the Yankees could theoretically fit Arenado into their lineup, particularly if they shifted Jazz Chisholm Jr. to second base. However, time is running out for the Cardinals as tensions between Arenado and the front office could escalate if a decision isn't made soon.